Expectations were certainly high. That simple statement summarizes the outlook going into the 2008-09 boys' basketball campaign. With senior Greg DeSantis (All SWC - First Team) expected to post solid numbers each game, along with fellow seniors James Hock (All Patriot Division) and Matt Caulfield (Honorable Mention), and several very talented freshmen, all eyes were on the Lancers as the season started. Hosting the SWC Tip-off Tournament, N.D. posted quality wins over Kaynor Tech and Bunnell to capture the tournament trophy and jump out to a 2-0 start on the season. With talent on the court, determined coaching, and impressive offense and defense, the Lancers helped to live up to expectations as they rolled through most of their competition during the regular season. A few losses aside, including two tough losses to league-rival Kolbe, the Lancers produced a solid final regular season record of 14-6, earning them the #4 seed in the SWC Tournament and a number #12 seed in the Class L State Tournament. In the SWC Tourney, the Lancers topped New Milford and Kolbe for their first-ever trip to the SWC championship. Unfortunately, the Lancers fell to Bunnell, but could look forward to additional games with the state tournament on the horizon. Winning their first-round state game by three points, the Lancers then travelled to West Hartford to take on a strong Northwest Catholic team. Despite trailing by just one point entering the fourth quarter, the Lancers bowed out of the tournament with a 65-52 loss. With so much underclassmen talent, the Lancer's future is certainly bright.